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GREENWICH, Conn.  U.S. Rep. Jim Himes said he was pleased with the education and energy points stressed by President Barack Obama in his third State of the Union address Tuesday night.

He reminded us of the absolute importance of educating every one of our children, every one of our people, so that they can be competitive and help lead our shared effort to rebuild a nation that provides opportunity for everyone, said Himes, D-4th District. We cant expect to offer the American Dream if we dont equip our young people with the capabilities and talents they need.

Obama called on every state to require all students to stay in high school until they graduate or turn 18. He also put college and universities on notice for high tuition costs, saying funding from taxpayers would go down if tuition isnt lowered. Higher education cant be a luxury  its an economic imperative that every family in America should be able to afford, Obama said.

Himes also applauded Obama for his emphasis on clean energy. Obama said, Its time to end the taxpayer giveaways to an industry thats rarely been more profitable and double-down on a clean energy industry thats never been more promising. Pass clean energy tax credits and create these jobs. He also directed his administration to allow the development of clean energy on enough public land to power 3 million homes.

Im proud to announce that the Department of Defense, the worlds largest consumer of energy, will make one of the largest commitments to clean energy in history  with the Navy purchasing enough capacity to power a quarter of a million homes a year, said Obama.

Himes said he appreciated the tone of optimism struck by the president. At this moment, when many Americans are discouraged and doubtful, he reminded us that our nation can accomplish anything if we work together, said Himes.

Check out the White Houses YouTube video above for an enhanced version of Obamas address Tuesday night.